As the Northern Territory faces an alarming rise in road fatalities, it's more crucial than ever to prioritize road safety.
In the 12 months leading up to June 2024, 54 people tragically lost their lives on our roads—an increase of 107.7% from the previous year. July alone saw 10 lives lost. With two long weekends ahead, it's essential for every driver to stay vigilant and practice safe driving habits to ensure everyone gets home safely.
The Automobile Association of the Northern Territory (AANT) is urging Territorians to avoid the "Fatal Five" – speeding, drink driving, failing to wear seatbelts, and driving tired or distracted. These are the major contributors to lives lost and severe crashes on Northern Territory roads. Understanding and mitigating these risks can help protect you and your loved ones.
Speeding:
Driving over the speed limit or too fast for the conditions significantly raises the likelihood of serious crashes. Enhance your safety by adhering to speed limits, slowing down in adverse weather, and resisting the urge to speed. Plan your trips to allow sufficient time to reach your destination safely.
Alcohol & Drugs:
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and heightens crash risk. Avoid this by not drinking and driving, arranging alternative transportation, and being mindful of the effects of any medications.
Seatbelts:
Seatbelts are crucial for saving lives and reducing injury severity in crashes. Make sure you and your passengers buckle up properly before starting the car.
Distraction:
Distractions like texting, phone calls, or adjusting the radio can be hazardous. Stay focused on the road ahead by switching your phone to "do not disturb" or putting it out of reach. No text is more important than a life.
Fatigue:
Fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of crashes. Combat fatigue by resting up before your journey, taking short breaks throughout your trip, and avoiding driving when you're feeling tired.
Simon Matthias, CEO of AANT, stresses the urgent need to reduce fatalities on Territory roads. "Reducing the number of lives lost is critically important," he states. "Too many people are suffering and are impacted. Raising awareness and educating Territorians about the 'Fatal Five' is essential, especially in light of this year's horrific road toll."
By avoiding the "Fatal Five," we can all reduce the danger while driving. Road safety is the responsibility of everyone and is one of the key priorities of AANT’s NT Election platform.
WE CAN DO BETTER, TOGETHER!
Your voice matters. Join AANT to drive real change for Territorians and the Northern Territory. Please take a moment to complete this brief survey and share what matters most to you. We will gather the responses and send the results to your electorate. Have your say today at NT Election Priorities for 2024.
